I ask Hairston, who also cited the Bible: Where in the Bible does it say that it’s OK for our youth — black or white, whatever color or race — to raise dogs to tear and rip others dogs to shreds, and then bet on who has the meanest, strongest and most powerful dog?

Animals don’t steal, rape, terrorize, sell and use drugs, bully the weak, and trash neighborhoods. They’re not disrespectful to their elders, neighbors and fellow Americans. Animals are brilliant creatures who have been victimized by so-called humans for greed, power and control over the weak.

The youth of this country look up to sports figures, and follow how they act, speak and live.

No, Ms. Hairston, it’s not just about loving your neighbor, it’s about compassion, love and caring about all living creatures.

I care about my fellow Americans whatever color or race they are. But do I like so-called fellow Americans who think the vicious sport of dogfighting is OK? No, I do not!

There are wonderful, kind caring people of all races who love animals and who know that Hairston’s views are not ours. We must address the troubling trend of children, who are being raised without compassion for not only humans, but for any living creatures.

Animals are not insensitive creatures. They are feeling, thinking beings. Did you know that geese mate for life, elephants actually bury their dead, or that a mother seal sheds tears when her pup is clubbed by hunters?

Our animal companions have a rich inner life that humans turn a blind eye to, and view them as just objects. Animals are wonderful special creatures, who are living souls like we are. They share the gift of life with us and deserve to be treated as such.

I thank B. McDonald (“Vick still needs to answer to God” Nov. 22), who also responded to Hairston’s letter and stood up for her compassion of animals.